Meet Judson Smith | Visual Artist , Sculptor & Contractor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Judson Smith and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Judson, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I’ve been making art for as long as I can remember. My father was a graphic artist and children’s book illustrator, and some of my earliest memories are of us drawing together. He taught me how to draw, and later I honed those skills through still life and portraiture. Most importantly, he taught me that it was possible for me to create the things I imagined — and that with hard work, I could learn to make truly masterful, impressive things.

We were always building something together — one week a model B-17 bomber, the next a suit of armor for the Renaissance fair. We made soapbox racers, Halloween costumes, and did all kinds of projects. He was incredibly engaged with me, and that made me feel seen. That experience gave me a deep sense of creative confidence — the belief that my ideas could be made manifest.

Growing up in Los Angeles, surrounded by the make-believe world of Hollywood, that sense of possibility only expanded. In elementary school I was making Super 8mm animated films — claymation, stop motion, and live action — with almost no budget, just curiosity and persistence. I was also an obsessive, meticulous model builder. All of that taught me that creativity isn’t just inspiration — it’s problem-solving, storytelling, and building something out of nothing.

I pursued an artistic career because I have a gift for creativity and craftsmanship, and I want to bring the visions I see into the world.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve found that creating sculpture that is uniquely and authentically me is my greatest offering to the world. Being uncompromising and boldly expressive is what makes my work powerful and meaningful. I believe the world needs artists who are willing to speak raw, beautiful truth. When I work from that place, my artwork resonates — and it gets attention.

I was deeply honored when the Crocker Art Museum selected my work “Anthropocene Dream” for “Selections from the Crocker–Kingsley Biennial 2025”. That recognition affirmed my belief in creating work that is fearless, personal, and unapologetically my own.

Looking back, I’ve come a long way. Fifteen years ago, I was in the middle of a divorce with two young children and had to start my life completely over again. For a period of time, I was doing odd jobs and even relying on food stamps while I worked to stabilize my life. I was determined to avoid debt and, most importantly, to be a present and reliable father. During that time, I continued making art when I could, but because the work wasn’t selling, I made the difficult decision to put my art career on the back burner. I kept a studio, but my priority was clear — I had bills to pay and mouths to feed.

That led me to start a contracting business. I saw a real need in the market for a concrete countertop restoration service. I started with a pickup truck, some tools, and no capital, and I built the business completely from the ground up. Over 15 years, the company grew to include many employees and thousands of customers. We earned a strong reputation throughout the Bay Area based on excellent customer service, high integrity, and trust. Eventually, I was able to successfully sell the business.

Running that company taught me invaluable lessons — how to manage people, finances, and growth; how to set realistic goals; how to ask for help when I don’t know something; how to turn mistakes into lessons; and how to operate with integrity in all business affairs. Those skills now directly support my art career. I approach my art practice not only as a creative pursuit, but as a professional business — building relationships with collectors, galleries, and institutions in a thoughtful and sustainable way.

Since selling the business, I’ve devoted myself full-time to my art. In the last two years, I’ve had two solo exhibitions and one major museum installation. Finally, my art career is receiving the attention and momentum it deserves. My children are now independent, and I have the freedom to fully commit to making powerful, ambitious work.

Along the way, I’ve learned that being uncompromising is what gives you a real edge in the art world. Making work that is strong enough that it can’t be ignored matters. I’ve also learned that opportunities don’t simply knock on your door — you have to go out and get them. Having a consistent daily and weekly studio routine, along with dedicated time for administrative work, has been key.

Every step I’ve taken forward in my art career has led to something meaningful — whether it’s a connection with a curator, meeting another artist with valuable insight, or learning something new that changes how I make my work. I value surrounding myself with artists who are further along in their careers so I can continue to learn and grow. The long arc is what matters. There are failures along the way, but they’re part of the process — and in the end the fruits of hard work will be revealed.

What I want people to know about my art and my brand is that you can build a thriving creative career by truly being yourself and bringing your authentic interests and creations into the world. There is real value in what you have to offer. The long path is what matters. It takes years to build something meaningful, and failures and doubts are part of the journey. What matters most is staying committed to your vision and purpose.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my best friend were visiting, I’d want to give them a true taste of Sonoma and the surrounding area — a mix of incredible food, wine, nature, and art.

We’d definitely start with what makes this region so special: wine country and farm-to-table dining. Sonoma has an amazing food scene, with fresh, local ingredients and creative chefs, so I’d make sure we hit a few standout restaurants to really experience that culture.

One of my favorite days would be a coastal adventure. I’d take them on a hike along the Kortum Trail at Shell Beach — the views are epic and it’s one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in Northern California. After the hike, we’d head to Bodega Bay for classic fish and chips at The Tides Wharf. It’s a perfect, no-frills way to end a day by the ocean.

On the way back, I’d stop in the town of Occidental. It’s a quaint, old-school town with real character and great food options — a perfect place to wander, grab a bite, and soak up some small-town charm.

Another must is The Barlow in Sebastopol. It’s a former apple processing area that’s been transformed into a lively complex of breweries, restaurants, wine tasting rooms, and boutique shops. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening hopping around, tasting, and people-watching.

For a more upscale art-and-dining experience, I’d take them to Healdsburg. The town has a great collection of art galleries, excellent restaurants, and a lively square that’s perfect for strolling. A highlight would be visiting the Paul Mahder Gallery, which consistently shows outstanding contemporary work. It’s a great place to experience the higher-end side of the regional art scene.

For a final blend of art and wine, I’d head over to Napa to visit the Hess Persson Estates. You can enjoy wine tasting while also viewing their world-class art collection, featuring works by some of the heavy hitters of contemporary art. It’s a great example of how this region blends culture, creativity, and wine.

To cap off the trip, I’d take them to Harbin Hot Springs in Middletown for a deep, cleansing soak in the healing waters. It’s one of the best hot springs in Northern California and the perfect way to relax, reset, and end an unforgettable week.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, I would dedicate my shoutout to my father. He was most certainly the president of my fan club. He was an exceptional man, and I know he would be proud of my accomplishments.

One of the most pivotal moments in my creative life came when I was 17 and first encountered the work of Ed Kienholz at LACMA. Seeing his work had a profound impact on me, and his life’s work became a major source of inspiration going forward.

However, it wasn’t until I encountered the work of Michael C. McMillen that I developed the theme and subject matter that would shape a decades-long path of study and exploration. I was fortunate enough to meet him and spend a little time with him, and that experience was transformative. It was at that point that I became fully committed to a lifetime of art making.

Along the way, at nearly every exhibition of my work, numerous people have expressed appreciation and admiration. It has been incredibly uplifting to witness people experience my work — to see them be inspired, awestruck, and to hear what the work conjures for them. That kind of response has been powerful encouragement to keep going.

I also want to acknowledge my girlfriend, Suraya. She has been deeply supportive of my art making and exhibiting. She truly understands what the work is about. She has shown up to all of my receptions, stood beside me in the big moments, and offered steady encouragement behind the scenes. I deeply appreciate her belief in me and the way she shows up for my work.

So many people have told me over the years, “You should be in a museum.” And finally, last year, my work was in a museum. That achievement was a result of the love and encouragement of everyone who has appreciated my art.

Website: https://www.judsonkingsmith.com

Instagram: @judsonkingsmith

Facebook: Jud Smith

Other: https://www.judsonkingsmith.com/blog

Image Credits
Judson K Smith